As trade talks continue, experts say we could get more potash from Russia

Fertilizer will soon be in high demand. Most U.S. potash supplies come from Canada, but that could change depending on how future trade talks unfold.

“As of right now, we believe that potash is under the 0% tariff rate because it is considered a critical mineral, because it falls underneath our trade agreements for North America. If that’s the case, there’s no reason for our supply routes to change. Yes, Russia will remain number two, but it is a distant number two. Canada will continue to be the major player. Now, if tensions with Canada were to ramp up again and we start seeing more tariff rates on their potash, that is going to change things. We are going to see ourselves try to call more product from places like Russia,” said StoneX’s Josh Linville.

Fertilizer prices are tracking higher recently. Analysts with DTN found last week’s prices for UAN32 gained 10 percent. Potash gained five percent, but is still almost 10 percent off last year’s levels.

Related Stories
Fuel costs ease over the long term, but fertilizer energy remains volatile.
Lower oil prices may trim input costs but pressure biofuel demand.
Cold-driven spikes in gas prices can quickly raise fertilizer and energy costs.
Nitrogen and phosphate markets are tightening ahead of spring, keeping fertilizer costs elevated while crop prices lag.
Economists are also closely watching how policy decisions in Washington could influence markets moving forward. Analysts say deferred futures for corn, soybeans, and wheat suggest markets are operating near break-even levels, not at prices that would encourage expanded production.
The federal government’s status is far from the only factor moving the markets on Friday. Two critical reports released today on producer inflation and the status of the U.S. cattle herd are also top of mind.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Farm Bureau economist Dr. Faith Parum explains how geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East could further tighten fertilizer movement, increase fuel costs, and complicate planting decisions for U.S. farmers this spring.
Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins discusses the potential impact of data center growth on farmland, the Landowner Fairness Act, and key priorities for Missouri farmers heading into planting season.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold provides insights on supporting aging populations in rural communities on this week’s Rural Health Matters segment.
OHFB President Bill Patterson shares an update from Washington on the group’s policy priorities and the issues shaping agriculture ahead of the 2026 planting season.
Ben Kurtzman with American Farmland Trust discusses the growing pressure on farmland and ranchland and the steps being taken to help conserve farms and ranches across the country ,as unrest in the Middle East adds more obstacles for producers.